Arsenal are sweating on William Saliba’s fitness after the influential centre-back, who played through a back injury, broke down in the World Cup semi-finals
(Image: FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)
Coach Didier Deschamps revealed that William Saliba has been suffering since March. And the Arsenal defender now faces up to five months out of action after the pain from a back injury sustained during the World Cup became “unbearable”.
Saliba limped off in France’s semi-final defeat to Spain, but it was a major injury for Arsenal as they look to defend their title as Premier League champions. The France centre-half may undergo surgery for a broken back, a similar injury to the one he sustained at the end of the 2022/23 season.
France coach Deschamps said ahead of the third-place match against England: “William Saliba is injured, so we have a problem.
“He underwent some tests. The injury did not worsen. He had been facing the injury since March. There was some pain, but unfortunately the pain was unbearable.”
Arsenal have not yet given a timetable for his recovery, but French media believe it is a long layoff and fear it is similar to previous issues.
Saliba admitted earlier in the tournament that he was suffering from some “slight pain”, but the severity of his injury only became clear after the match against Spain, when Deschamps said: “I can’t take any more pain.”
Arsenal’s players entered this World Cup with major problems after a debilitating season with long-term injury concerns for Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.
Pierrot Hincapie also picked up a muscle problem before the game against Ecuador, a reflection of how tough Arsenal’s season has been and how hard Mikel Arteta has pushed them to win their first title in 22 years.
Saliba’s injury could require surgery (Image: Chris Brunskill/Fantasista, Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Deschamps admitted he will be emotional as he is set to take charge of his final game against England after an illustrious 15-year reign.
Deschamps added: “In my head I know this is the last game. I don’t want to make anyone cry. I know the French national team will be gone, but I have had the privilege of wearing this shirt for 15 years and experienced some great moments and some more difficult moments.”
“The end is near, but life goes on. I’m a positive person and I know it’s great. The French national team is the most beautiful thing that happened to me. It took 25 years of my life, but it’s great. I have some unforgettable memories, but the most important thing is what lies ahead.”
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